Compartment

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a compartment provided a tufted textile ( 100 ) comprising: a backing ( 10 ), and yarns ( 40 ) forming tufts extending from a first side of the backing, the compartment further comprising a light source ( 50; 80 ) and a conductor arrangement ( 60 ) for the light source, wherein the light source, the conductor arrangement and the backing are arranged so as to radiate light from the light source at least partly through the backing, the backing being substantially permeable to light. The tufted textile ( 100 ) may be a carpet.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to light emissive textile lining and moreparticularly to compartments of passenger vehicles or public placesincorporating light emissive textile lining. The invention furtherrelates to a light emissive element adapted for providing a roominterior lining in a compartment of a vehicle and a method ofmanufacturing a light emissive element.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention concerns a compartment, for instance, a vehiclecompartment, or a lined compartment found in public places, such asrestrooms, hotel lobbies or the like, provided with light emissivelining. Generally, a compartment is understood as a room in a buildingor vehicle, in particular, a passenger compartment or storagecompartment. In such places, lining may be provided on any of the innersurfaces of the compartment, such as compartment floor, sidewalls orcompartment ceiling, functioning as acoustic damping and/or shieldingagainst thermal influences, wear and tear or even for decorativepurposes.

The illumination may be integral with a passenger seat in a vehicle orwith a door into the passenger compartment.

The illumination may be integral with the interior of the compartment,e.g. a wall, floor or roof. Thus the illumination may be integral with aroof lining in an automobile or the like. A plurality of suchilluminators may be arranged in the vehicle.

The compartment may comprise a plastics or fibrous molded component inor forming part of the compartment, and the light emissive lining may beintegral with the component.

Where light emissive systems are incorporated in vehicles, the lightemissive lining principle allows them to be fully integrated inprefabricated units including related services such as roof lights andrelated control and display technology served by as little as one wiringharness for reduced assembly cost. In addition the integration of moreadvanced facilities in, for example, a vehicle roof lining, addsengineering value to this product.

The integration of illumination systems with vehicle design is animportant aspect of modern practice. The light emissive lining of thepresent invention is uniquely suited to these applications whereunobtrusive even totally concealed illumination systems may be designed.

Vehicle components which are provided with light emissive lining mayinclude parcel shelves, head linings and door interior panels.

In manufacture, small light emissive linings may be molded into place ina headlining or the like to simplify construction. An light emissivelining according to the present invention may be incorporated in aconventional vehicle using, for example, existing or partially modifiedsurfaces, or by molding and suitable attachment of the light emissivelining to the different linings and trimmings of the vehicle, forexample in panels of the headrest remote from occupant head contact.

The light emissive lining can be attached to or installed in thevacuum-forming or other molding process of the internal trimmings, inparticular the headlining, the door-lining, parcel-shelf, sun visor orthe dashboard of an automobile.

In a particular application, a vehicle foot-well can be provided with alight emissive lining as herein described. In addition, side walls androof lining can be equipped with the light emissive lining.

WO2006/057531 discloses a light-emitting mat for vehicles. Thelight-emitting mat comprises a carpet part covered with lots of ciliafor the purposes of soundproofing, warmth and impact-absorption andhaving an opening at a portion thereof; a transparent decoration platehaving decorative patterns which correspond to a shape of the opening ofthe carpet part and supporting the carpet part; a support plate having arecess with a shape which corresponds to the shape of the opening andthe decorative patterns for supporting the transparent decoration plate;a transparent light-emitting plate having a size that allows it to bemounted in the recess of the support plate; a plurality of LEDsinstalled in a plurality of insertion grooves, respectively, formedalong edges of the transparent light-emitting plate; a power supply unitfor supplying electric power to the light-emitting diodes; and a binderfor binding the carpet part, the transparent decoration plate and thesupport plate.

DE102006012606 discloses an interior lining for a vehicle that is lightemissive. The lining is formed as a woven textile sheet, which is placedin front of a planar light source provided on a molded component. Thewoven textile sheet structure may impact the light transmissivity of thelining, and may have less favorable acoustic properties since thethickness of the sheet affects the light transmissivity while thinnersheets reduce acoustic isolation/damping properties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an improved light emissivelining for compartments, in particular, vehicle compartments.

According to an aspect, the present invention provides a compartmentcomprising a tufted textile, the tufted textile comprising: a backing,and yarns forming tufts extending from a first side of the backing, thecompartment further comprising a light source and a conductorarrangement for the light source, wherein the light source, theconductor arrangement and the backing are arranged on a side facing awayfrom the first side of the backing, so as to radiate light from thelight source at least partly through the backing, the backing beingsubstantially permeable to light.

The compartment may be provided in a vehicle or public place, thecompartment provided with an interior having the tufted textile, lightsource and conductor arrangement arranged as a light emissive lining.

Although not necessary, the interior may be fully provided with lightemissive lining.

Tufted textiles are typically made by providing a backing with yarnswhich form tufts on its side facing the user during use. Examples oftufted textiles include carpets, draperies and upholstery fabrics.Throughout the description, carpet is taken as an example of the tuftedtextiles for explaining the present invention. It will be understoodthat most of the advantages of the present invention explained inrelation to carpets are also applicable for other types of tuftedtextiles such as draperies and upholstery fabrics. Carpet backingsgenerally comprise a primary backing layer provided with yarns formingtufts, a second backing layer, an adhesive layer provided between theprimary backing layer and the second backing layer. The yarns penetratethe primary backing layer to form tufts projecting from the pile surfaceon which people can walk. Stitches are present on the opposite side. Theadhesive layer present on the stitch side adheres the stitches to theprimary backing layer and holds the tufts in place, as well as adheringthe primary backing layer and the second backing layer.

As used in this description, the term ‘second backing layer’ includesthe backing layer which forms the surface of the carpet opposite fromthe pile surface. Such a layer is usually referred as a ‘secondarybacking layer’ and is commercially available. These ‘secondary backinglayers’ have an advantage that they are well-suited for carpet backingand fit in well with the carpet manufacturing method used in carpetfactories. However, it is to be noted that a second backing layer is notrestricted to a secondary backing layer, and further layers may bepresent.

For many applications, it is required for the carpets to pass a numberof tests. The carpets may be tested for, among other things, appearanceretention, colorfastness to light, cleaning and crocking, tuft bind,delamination strength and electrostatic propensity. An appearanceretention test may be performed using the Hexapod Drum, Vettermann Drumor Tetrapod Drum. In these tests, a ball with multiple projectionsmodeling feet tumbles over the pile surface of a carpet, and theappearance is subsequently evaluated. Examples of the appearanceretention test method are described in ISO TR 10361 and ISO/CD 12950 andASTM D-5252 of Hexampod Drum Tester guidelines. The delaminationstrength of the second backing layer from the primary backing may beperformed according to a test described in ASTM D-3936. A test for thestrength of the adhesion of the stitches to the backing layer structuremay be ASTM D1355. The second backing layer of the carpet also may needto be tested for air permeability. During curing of the binders,vaporized binders must be able to escape from the backings. The airpermeability of the second backing layer may be tested according to ASTMD-737.

The structure of the lining may be multi-layered, comprising a backingin which tufts are fixed, typically using nylon yarns. The backing maybe provided with one or more backing layers. In addition, a coating oflatex may be spread onto the bottom of the backing in order to furtherlock the tufts in place. This is conventionally known as the pre-coatlatex layer. After the pre-coat layer has dried, an additional layer oflatex may be applied (the so-called adhesive layer), onto which asecondary backing layer may be applied. The carpet is then typicallyplaced in an oven (autoclave) to cure the latex. The purpose of thesecondary backing layer is to give the carpet structure extra strength.

The lining may be provided in a vehicle compartment typically as acarpet material that has acoustic damping properties and providesdecorative covering. In one embodiment the headlining is provided as atranslucent carpet, having a backing structure (mono or multilayerstructure) that is translucent so that light can be transmitted from alight source provided behind the carpet when mounted in the vehicle. Inthis embodiment, the carpet fully covers the light source and is fixedonto the light source as a translucent part, which can be manufacturedas a conventional carpet provided with a translucent tuft backing.

An element which is substantially permeable to light refers e.g. to anelement through which at least a portion of light hitting the element isallowed to transmit. The element may partly or completely be made of atranslucent material, or the element may have apertures through whichlight can penetrate.

The invention is based on the realization that the yarns forming tuftsof the textile form a structure having enough openings to transmitlight, even though the textile appears to be opaque to human eyes. Forappearance reason, the tufts are provided in such a way that the primarybacking layer is not visible, but the light can still penetrate throughthe tuft structure. Placing a light source under a primary backing layerwhich is permeable to light results in that the light from the lightsource is emitted from the tufted surface.

Such a tufted textile has the advantage that it has less sizerestriction of the light emitting part.

The adhesive layer holding the tufts in place may also be used to holdthe light source and the conductor arrangement in place under theprimary backing layer. The light source may be positioned between asecond side of the primary backing layer and the adhesive layer.Opening(s) may be provided on the surface of the adhesive layer facingthe primary backing layer, in which the light source can be placed.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layeris at least partially permeable to light for allowing transmission ofthe light from the light source to the primary backing layer. Thisallows that the light source and the conductor arrangement are arrangedon the side of the adhesive layer facing away from the primary backinglayer, i.e., for instance, on the surface of the adhesive layer. In thiscase, the light source and the conductor arrangement may be fixed inplace with an additional adhesive means. The light source may also befully encapsulated in the adhesive layer. Alternatively, the lightsource may be positioned under the adhesive layer with a space betweenthe light source and the adhesive layer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the tufted textilefurther comprises a second backing layer provided on a side of theadhesive layer facing away from the primary backing layer, wherein

the primary backing layer, the adhesive layer and the second backinglayer have substantially the same surface area,

the adhesive layer is substantially permeable to light and

the light source, the conductor arrangement and the second backing layerare arranged so as to allow light from the light source to reach theadhesive layer.

Without the second backing layer, the textile may be more flexible. Thismay be preferable for draperies and upholstery fabrics. On the otherhand, the addition of the second backing layer to the tufted textile asin this embodiment enhances the strength of the textile. This may bepreferable for carpets. Compared to draperies and upholstery fabrics,carpets have the specific advantage of having more robustness andthickness, due to which the light source is better protected.Preferably, the light source is provided behind the secondary backinglayer of the carpet, in mounted condition, since this allowsstraightforward fabrication of the carpet without the need forintegration of the light sources in the carpet. In this embodiment, thecarpet is formed having a translucent backing, which can be provided inone piece on a (planar) light source provided behind the carpet inmounted condition in a vehicle. Additionally, or alternatively themanufacturing method for carpets allows easy incorporation of the lightsource inside the carpet structure.

The light source may be one or more LEDs. With a structure definedabove, there is no restriction in how to distribute the LEDs in, below,or on the second backing layer. Unlike the prior art mat, the LEDs canbe placed over substantially the whole area of the second backing layer.The lack of the opening above the LEDs as in the prior art mat makes thecarpet according to the present invention more suitable for use inplaces where light emission is not always needed. There is also no steprequired for cutting the primary backing layer in the portion above theLEDs, so the manufacturing of the carpet is simple. Furthermore, theprimary backing layer contributes to the protection of the LEDs frompossible damages caused by e.g. feet or chair legs.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the LEDs and theconductor arrangement are integrated in the second backing layer,wherein the second backing layer is at least partially permeable tolight for allowing transmission of the light from the LEDs to theadhesive layer, or the LEDs and the conductor arrangement are providedon the surface of the second backing layer facing the adhesive layer.These two arrangements of the LEDs, the conductor arrangement and thesecond backing layer ensure that the light from the LEDs reach theadhesive layer, to be further transmitted to the pile surface of thecarpet. The advantage of this approach is that the LEDs are protectedwithin the laminated structure of the carpet. The LEDs are protected,e.g. against abrasion or impact, which could damage e.g. the electronicsor damage a water-tight seal around the electronics. On the pile surfaceside, the LEDs are protected by the primary backing with tufts, and onthe opposite side the LEDs are protected by the second backing.Protection of the backside is especially important during installationof the carpet.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the primary backinglayer is substantially translucent. As used in this description, theterm ‘translucent’ means that all or part of the wavelengths of thevisible light is permitted to pass through the material, with or withoutbeing diffused. This has the advantage that the decrease of theintensity of the light emitted from the LEDs by the primary backinglayer is reduced. For example, more than 5%, or more than 10%, or morethan 30% of light intensity may be transmitted.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the primary backinglayer has apertures which are covered by the tufts. In such anarrangement where the apertures are not visible to human eyes, thecarpet can be used as a regular carpet when the LEDs are off. Theapertures increase the intensity of the emitted light. The freedom ofthe choice of material for the primary backing layer is high, becausethe primary backing layer material is not necessarily translucent. Anexample of such a backing layer may be a woven backing layer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, at least one of theprimary backing layer and the second backing layer comprisespolypropylene, nylon or jute. These materials have the advantage thatthey are of relatively low cost. It is easy to manufacture a translucentstructure with polypropylene or nylon. Also, the fact that thesematerials are commonly used in existing tufted carpets makes the carpetaccording to the invention easy to manufacture. It is noted that thesebacking layers may substantially consist of the above materials.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layercomprises latex. The latex may be a translucent latex. It is noted thatthe adhesive layer may substantially consist of latex. The latex may bebased on terpolymers of styrene, butadiene and an acidic vinyl monomer.When the adhesive layer substantially consists of translucent latex andcomprise substantially no light scattering particles, the light from theLEDs can leave the carpet efficiently. Thus, preferably no lightscattering fillers are used in the adhesive and the adhesive layer istranslucent.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layercomprises acrylics. The acrylics may be a translucent acrylics. It isnoted that the adhesive layer may substantially consist of acrylics. Anexample of acrylics is polyacrylate ester. Advantages of acrylics arehardness, flexibility and resistance against UV. Acrylics are alsohighly resistant to heat, which makes it an especially suitable materialfor use in combination with LEDs which generate a relatively largeamount of heat. Latex and acrylics may also be used in combination.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layercomprises light scattering particles, which are also referred asfillers. Fillers have the advantage of reducing the cost of the carpet,while bulking up the adhesive at the same time. Because the fillersscatter light, this results in that the light from the carpet appears tooriginate from an area larger than the original emission spot. It isadvantageous when a homogeneous light emission is desired. The lightscattering particles may be calcium carbonate. The advantage of calciumcarbonate is that it is of relatively low cost. Calcium carbonate may bein the form of calcite or chalk. The light scattering particles may alsobe kaolinite such as china clay fillers. Typically the fillers are usedin quantities such as for example 600 g/l, but for many embodiments ofthe current invention it is preferred that much lower amounts are usedin order to increase the light transmittance for example, lower than 60g/l or even lower than 6 g/l. In the latter case, the fillers function alight diffuser without substantially hindering the optical translucence.When reducing the amount of filler, the total amount of adhesive mayalso be reduced, for example to 400 g/m2 (instead of typically 700 g/m2)for the pre-coat layer and 400 g/m2 (instead of typically 600 g/m2) forthe adhesive layer (dry weight).

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layercomprises electrically conductive particles. The electrically conductiveparticles give the carpet anti-static properties. The electricallyconductive particles may be e.g. carbon black, potassium formate(HCOOK), tin-oxide, indium-tin-oxide or silver.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the adhesive layercomprises anti-oxidants. The amount of anti-oxidants may be in the rangeof 1-3 parts per 100 parts latex (per weight), but more preferably it isin the range 4-6 parts per 100 parts latex, or even 7-9 parts per 100parts latex. The anti-oxidants make the adhesive layer more resistant toheat. This is advantageous because LEDs can generate a substantialamount of heat. Also, latex without anti-oxidants may age faster andbecome yellow after some time.

According to a further embodiment of the invention the second backinglayer has an air permeability of at least 76.2 m³/min/m². Airpermeability of the second backing layer can be determined according toASTM D-737, with a pressure differential equal to 0.5 inch (1.27 cm)water. An acceptable value is 250 ft³/min/ft² (76.2 m³/min/m²), but morepreferred values are in the range of 350-800 ft³/min/ft² (106.7-243.8m³/min/m²). Second backing layers with an air permeability of only 80ft³/min/ft² (24.4 m³/min/m²) are considered to be less favorable forhigh binder cure rates.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the second backinglayer has apertures for air passage. Vaporized binders used for theadhesive layer can pass through the apertures during curing of thecarpet. With this embodiment, it is promoted that the air permeabilityof the second backing layer is sufficiently high.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the carpet has adelamination strength of at least 44.6 kg/m between the primary backinglayer and the second backing layer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the conductorarrangement and connections between the LED and the conductorarrangement are embedded in a water-tight enclosure. This promotes theelectrical safety of the carpet, even when the carpet is wet.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the LEDs areconnected to form a circuit comprising sets of LEDs connected in series,the sets being connected in parallel. This arrangement has an advantagethat the construction is simple and easy to manufacture. The conductorarrangement may be pre-manufactured on a sheet of e.g. plastic, afterwhich it is provided on or integrated in the second backing layer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the conductorarrangement comprises two grids of conductive wires, which areelectrically isolated from each other.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, each of the LEDs iscovered with a protective cover. The protective cover may be made ofsilicone rubber. This not only promotes the electrical safety of thecarpet, but also that the carpet performs better in the appearanceretention test mentioned above. During the test, the LEDs are betterprotected against the impact of the balls tumbling over the carpet.Additionally, the silicone rubber is soft and flexible, due to which isbecomes less likely for a person to feel the presence of the lightsource within the carpet structure.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the LEDs and thecircuit arrangement are arranged so that at least a part (and preferablya substantial part, or more preferably all) of the LEDs is operable whenthe carpet is reduced in size. This may be achievable by a carpet inwhich the second backing layer comprises, successively from the sidefacing away from the adhesive layer, a first electrically insulatinglayer, a first electrically conductive layer, a second electricallyinsulating layer, a second electrically conductive layer and a thirdelectrically insulating layer, wherein each of the LEDs has a first anda second connector respectively connected to the first and the secondelectrically conductive layer. The first and the second electricallyconductive layers act as the conductor arrangement. When the carpet iscut in an area between discrete LEDs, the remaining LEDs are stillconnected to the power source, resulting in that the LEDs are still ableto be turned on and off. This substantially reduces the limitation inthe size or shape the carpet is cut.

Also, a carpet in which the LEDs are connectable to the power source inparallel may achieve the above-mentioned enhanced freedom in cutting.When part of the carpet comprising some of the LEDs is cut away in anembodiment where the LEDs are connected in parallel to the power source,the LEDs in the remaining portion are still connected to the powersource, and remain operable.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, at least the secondelectrically conductive layer and the third electrically insulatinglayer are substantially translucent.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the first and thesecond conductive layers substantially consist of a material embeddedwith electrically conductive particles. The electrically conductiveparticles give the layers electrical conductivity, so the materialitself may be electrically insulating. The electrically conductiveparticles may be e.g. tin-oxide, indium-tin-oxide, or silver.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the material of thefirst and the second conductive layers substantially consists of atranslucent rubber.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the electricallyconductive particles are light scattering. Because the electricallyconductive particles also have light scattering properties in thisembodiment, there is no need for additional light scattering particlesin the carpet for a homogeneous light output.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the carpet furthercomprises a third backing layer adhered to a side of the second backinglayer facing away from the adhesive layer.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the LEDs areRed-Green-Blue (RGB) LEDs. For example, a portion of the LEDs is redLED, another portion is green LEDs and yet another portion is blue LEDs.The use of RGB LEDs is advantageous because it allows the color of thecarpet to be changed. For example when white tufts are used incombination with RGB LEDs, it is possible to change the color of thecarpet into any desired color. For example, by setting the RGB LEDs tothe color green, the tufts of the carpet will look green. This effectmay be combined with colored tufts in carpet zones that are not changingcolor.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the light sourcecomprises a light emitting sheet arranged on a side of the secondbacking layer facing away from the adhesive layer. The light emittingsheet may be adhered to the second backing layer by a second adhesivelayer. The light emitting sheet may also be adhered to the secondbacking layer by mean of an adhesive tape. In this case, the secondadhesive layer between the light emitting sheet and the second backinglayer is not required. It is also noted that the light emitting sheetmay be positioned under the second backing layer with a spacing inbetween. This can be realized, e.g. by adhering only a part, e.g. therim of the light emitting sheet, to the second backing layer. It is alsopossible to use no adhesive at all.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the light emittingsheet comprises an electroluminescent panel, an LED panel or an OLEDpanel. The advantage of an electroluminescent panel, an LED panel or anOLED panel is that they may be made flexible and thin, which makes themmore suitable for use in the present invention. The light emitting sheetmay also comprise other light sources such as incandescent andfluorescent lighting.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the tufted textilefurther comprises a reflecting layer positioned to a side of the lightemitting sheet facing away from the second backing layer. The reflectinglayer can direct the light from the light emitting sheet to the pilesurface and increase the intensity of the light emitted from the tuftedtextile.

The invention also provides a second backing layer structured as definedin any one of the embodiments above.

The invention also provides an illumination system comprising a carpetas defined in any one of the embodiments above, control circuits of theLEDs and a lighting controller for controlling signals provided to thecontrol circuits.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing a carpetcomprising a light source and a conductor arrangement for the lightsource, comprising the step of:

adhering a primary backing layer which is substantially permeable tolight provided with yarns forming tufts and a second backing layerhaving substantially the same surface area as the primary layer with anadhesive layer which is substantially permeable to light and havingsubstantially the same surface area as the primary backing layer and thesecond backing layer,

wherein the light source, the conductor arrangement and the secondbacking layer are arranged so as to allow light from the light source toreach the adhesive layer. The light source may be one or more LEDs.Alternatively, the light source may comprise a light emitting sheetarranged on a side of the second backing layer facing away from theadhesive layer.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step ofadhering comprises the sub-steps of:

applying a first adhesive sub-layer on the side of the primary backinglayer facing away from the tufts;

drying the first adhesive sub-layer;

applying a second adhesive sub-layer on the dried first adhesivesub-layer and

applying the second backing layer to the second adhesive sub-layer.

During manufacturing of the carpet, the adhesive layer may be applied intwo steps. First a pre-coat of an adhesive material is applied to thestitch side of the primary backing layer, in order to lock the tufts inplace. After the pre-coat layer has dried, a second adhesive layer isapplied on the dried pre-coat layer, which is used to adhere the secondbacking to the primary backing. The pre-coat adhesive layer and thesecond adhesive layer may be made of different types of latex. Forexample, different amount of calcium carbonate particles may be added.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing a second backinglayer of a carpet, comprising the steps of:

providing a first electrically isolating layer substantially consistingof translucent rubber;

applying a first layer of uncured translucent electrically conductiverubber on top of the first layer of electrically isolating translucentrubber;

immersing a light source into the first layer of uncured translucentelectrically conductive rubber;

curing the first layer of uncured translucent electrically conductiverubber to form a first electrically conductive layer;

providing a second electrically isolating translucent layer on top ofthe first electrically conductive layer;

applying a second layer of uncured translucent electrically conductiverubber on top of the electrically isolating translucent layer;

curing the second layer of uncured translucent electrically conductiverubber to form a second electrically conductive layer; and

providing a third electrically isolating translucent layer on top of thesecond electrically conductive layer.

According to a preferred embodiment, the light source is a plurality ofLEDs. In this embodiment, the step of immersing the light source maycomprise a step of immersing LEDs each having a first electrode and asecond electrode into the first layer of uncured translucentelectrically conductive rubber such that the first electrode is at leastpartially immersed in the rubber.

According to an embodiment the textile is used as automotive textile,covering one or more parts of the interior of an automotive vehicle (forexample floor, roof, and sidelines). Automotive vehicles have theadvantage that it is easy to supply the light source with power, andthat the surface is often metallic, which allows effective cooling ofthe light source(s). In addition, the textile has favorable acousticdamping properties which increases the travel comfort. The textile inaddition provides convenient illumination or coloring of the interior.

In one embodiment, the light emissive lining is provided as an emergencylighting system, arranged to provide emergency lighting and or emergencyinformation display. The embodiment comprises a light emissive carpetcontrolled by a display controller in a first operation mode, whereinthe light emissive function of the carpet is shut off or only used fordecorative light emissive purposes; and wherein, in a second operationmode, the display controller instructs the light emissive carpet todisplay safety or information signals. The controller may be receivinginstructions from a central safety control system and additionally, thecontroller and/or light emissive carpet may be fed by emergency powersupply.

It is noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations offeatures recited in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from andelucidated with reference to the drawings in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodimentof the carpet according to the invention;

FIGS. 2 a, 2 b and 2 c schematically illustrate a cross sectional viewof further two embodiments of the carpet according to the invention;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of a furtherembodiment of the carpet according to the invention;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an electric scheme of the LEDs and theconductor arrangement for the second backing layer according to theinvention;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment ofthe second backing layer according to the invention;

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of a furtherembodiment of the second backing layer according to the invention;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of a furtherembodiment of the second backing layer according to the invention and

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodimentof the carpet according to the invention;

FIGS. 9 a-d schematically illustrate an exemplary method ofmanufacturing the second backing according to the invention usingtranslucent rubber

FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show experimental results of the optical propertiesof a conventional carpet and the carpet according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a tufted textile (100) in the form ofa tufted carpet;

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 show examples of a vehicle having a passengercompartment provided with light emissive lining;

FIG. 14 shows an alternative example of a vehicle having a passengercompartment;

FIG. 15 shows an additional safety or information application;

FIG. 16 shows another embodiment;

FIG. 17 shows yet another embodiment; and

FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 show liner systems that may be arranged modularly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

It is noted that the same reference numbers have been used forcorresponding elements in the embodiments whenever possible.

A carpet is taken as an example of the tufted textile according to thepresent invention to describe the present invention. It should be notedthat the description is also applicable to other types of tuftedtextiles.

Referring to FIG. 1, the cross section of an embodiment of a carpet 100according to the present invention is shown. The carpet 100 comprises aprimary backing layer 10, a second backing layer 20 and an adhesivelayer 30 between the primary backing layer 10 and the second backinglayer 20. Tufts 40 formed by yarns are provided on and held in place bythe primary backing layer 10. LEDs 50 and a conductor arrangement 60 areintegrated in the second backing layer 20. It is noted that the LEDs 50and the conductor arrangement 60 may also be provided on top of thesecond backing layer 20.

The LEDs 50 are distributed over substantially the whole area of thesecond backing layer 20. Preferably, the distance between the LEDs 50 is1-20 cm, more preferably 5-15 cm. The primary backing layer 10, thesecond backing layer 20 and the adhesive layer 30 have substantially thesame surface area. The primary backing layer 10 and the adhesive layer30 are substantially permeable to light. In this embodiment wherein theLEDs 50 and the conductor arrangement 60 are integrated in the secondbacking layer 20, the second backing layer 20 is at least partiallypermeable to light for allowing transmission of the light from the LEDs50 to the adhesive layer 30. The light permeability of the layers 10,20, 30 may be realized by the layers 10, 20, 30 being substantiallytranslucent or the layers 10, 20, having apertures for the transmissionof the light. In case the apertures are present in the primary backinglayer 10, they may at least partly be covered by the tufts 40 so thatthey will hardly/not be visible to human eyes. The primary backing layer10 and the second backing layer 20 may substantially consist of e.g.polypropylene, nylon or jute. The adhesive layer 30 may substantiallyconsist of e.g. latex.

When the LEDs 50 are turned on, the light from the LEDs 50 goes throughthe second backing layer 20, the adhesive layer 30 and the primary layer10 because of their light permeable properties. The light will then passthrough the gaps between the tufts 40, and will be emitted to theoutside of the carpet. The density and the type of the tufts 40 used cancontrol the amount and/or distribution of light emitted from the carpet100. When the LEDs 50 are turned off, only the tufts 40 will be visible,and the carpet 100 will not look different from a regular carpet.

The second backing layer 20 may be based upon an existing product forthe secondary backing layer, such as the one known under the nameActionBac®. For example, this is a backing made of a leno weave of slitfilm and spun olefin yarns. It has a 2.1 ounce per square yard (0.71gram per square meter) fabric with polypropylene warp tapes andpolypropylene multifilament picks in a leno wave with averages of 16warps per inch (per 2.54 cm) and 5 picks per inch (per 2.54 cm). Such abacking layer imparts dimensional stability with good delaminationstrength in carpets. This backing layer also has openness well suitedfor robust curing rates during manufacture. The air permeability of thisbacking, determined according to ASTM D-737 with a pressure differentialequal to 0.5 inch water, exceeds about 750 ft³/min/ft² (229 m³/min/m²),which is ample for robust binder cure rates. Another such product with ahigher count, 18×13, leno wave construction, has average airpermeability above about 720 ft³/min/ft² (219 m³/min/m²). This is alsowell suited for efficient cure rates. Preferably, the second backinglayer 20 has a high adhesive compatibility with the material used forthe adhesive layer 30, so that the carpet 100 will pass delaminationtest such as the test described in ASTM D-3936. The delaminationresistance-imparting properties should preferably be such that thebacking when laminated in the reference carpets described has adelamination strength of at least 2.5 pounds/in (44.6 kg/m). However,preferred values are greater than 3-4 pounds/in (53.6-71.4 kg/m), morepreferably at least 5.5 pounds/in (98.2 kg/m) and even more preferablyat least 6 pounds/in (107.1 kg/m).

It should be noted that any other existing second backing material maybe used as basis for the second backing used in this invention. Otherexamples are needlefelt backings, rubber backings, PVC backings,polyurethane backings, vinyl backings, cushion backings, nylon backings.The fibers in the needlefelt backings are needled for bonding. It isalso noted that a cushion or padding may be integrated in the secondbacking. Another example of a second backing material is bitumen. Thismaterial is used when extra sturdy carpet is required, such as forexample in carpet tiles, or in car mats. In some embodiments (forexample as in FIG. 2 a), bitumen may also be used as adhesive.

Referring to FIGS. 2 a and 2 b, the cross section of two furtherembodiments of a carpet 100 according to the present invention is shown.This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 except forthe lack of the second backing layer 30 which is present in theembodiment of FIG. 1. In FIG. 2 a, the LEDs 50 are provided directly onthe primary backing layer 10. The LEDs 50 and the conductor arrangement60 are embedded in the adhesive layer 30. In FIG. 2 b, the LEDs 50 andthe conductor arrangement 60 are provided on the surface of the adhesivelayer 30.

Additionally, in FIG. 2 c, the LEDs 50 and conductor arrangement 60 maybe provided as separate elements possibly attached to a mounting element220 to provide a planar light source 200; where the light permeablecarpet 100, including primary backing 10, adhesive layer 30 andsecondary backing, in the form of second backing layer 20, is attachedvia an optional adhesive layer 300 to the planar light source 200.Alternatively, spotlights may be used.

Referring to FIG. 3, the cross section of a further embodiment of acarpet 100 according to the present invention is shown. This embodimentis similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 except for the lightscattering particles 70 embedded in the adhesive layer 30. The lightscattering particles 70 may be e.g. calcium carbonate. The use ofcalcium carbonate has an advantage that it is relatively inexpensive.The adhesive layer 30 may comprise, in addition or alternatively to thelight scattering particles 70, electrically conductive particles. Theelectrically conductive particles improve the anti-static properties ofthe carpet. The electrically conductive particles may be e.g. carbonblack, potassium formate (HCOOK), tin-oxide, indium-tin-oxide or silver.It is to be noted that the size of the electrically conductive particlesmay be chosen to have light scattering properties. Furthermore, inaddition or alternatively to the above-mentioned particles, the adhesivelayer may comprises anti-oxidants. The anti-oxidants make the adhesivelayer more resistant to heat.

It is to be noted that the primary backing layer 10 and the secondbacking layer 20 may also comprise light scattering particles 70.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an electric scheme of the LEDs and theconductor arrangement for the second backing layer 20 according to theinvention.

In this embodiment, the LEDs 50 are connected to form a circuitcomprising sets of LEDs 50 connected in series wherein the sets areconnected in parallel. The advantage of this embodiment is that theconstruction is simple and easy to manufacture. The conductorarrangement 60 may be pre-manufactured on a sheet of for exampleplastic, after which it is embedded in the second backing layermaterial.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates the perspective view of an embodimentof the second backing layer 20 according to the invention.

In this embodiment, the LEDs 50 and the conductor arrangement 60 areprovided on top of the second backing layer 20. The second backing layer20 may also have recesses on its surface, into which the LEDs 50 aremounted. The conductor arrangement 60 comprises two grids of conductivewires 61, 62 which are electrically isolated from each other. When thecarpet 100 is cut in the portions between the LEDs 50, the LEDs 50 arestill connected to the power source, resulting in that the LEDs 50 arestill able to be turned on and off. This substantially reduces thelimitation in the size or shape the carpet 100 is cut.

In this embodiment, a protective cover 80 is disposed over each of theLEDs 50. The protective covers 80 may substantially consist of asilicone rubber. One of the LEDs 50 is shown without the protectivecover. The second backing layer 20 may have apertures for air passage.Vaporized binders used for the adhesive layer 30 pass through theapertures during curing of the carpet 100. This ensures that the airpermeability of the second backing layer 20 is sufficiently high. Theseapertures allow more freedom in the choice of materials for the secondbacking layer 20 in that the second backing layer 20 with low airpermeability may be used.

It is to be noted that the conductor arrangement 60 may be made withmore than two grids. For example, when four grids are used, it ispossible to control the color of RGB LEDs.

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates the cross section of a furtherembodiment of the second backing layer 20 according to the invention.For the carpet 100 to emit light from its pile surface, the LED 50 usedherein may be a side emitting LED, or a normal LED with adaptedelectrode connectors.

In this embodiment, the second backing layer 20 comprises, successivelyfrom the side facing away from the adhesive layer, a first electricallyinsulating layer 21, a first electrically conductive layer 22, a secondelectrically insulating layer 23, a second electrically conductive layer24 and a third electrically insulating layer 25. The LED 50 is embeddedin the second backing layer 20. Each of the LEDs 50 has a first and asecond connector 51 and 52 respectively connected to the first and thesecond electrically conductive layers 22 and 24. A single power supplyis required to connect all LEDs 50. An installer can cut this carpet inany size and the LED system will still operate in the same way. Thismultilayer construction also has an advantage that the LEDs areprotected well against damage and water.

In this embodiment, the layers 21-25 may be translucent. Theelectrically insulating layers 21, 23, 25 may be made of a translucentrubber. The electrically conductive layers 22, 24 may be a translucentrubber comprising electrically conductive particles.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates the cross section of a furtherembodiment of the second backing layer 20 according to the invention. Inthis embodiment, light from the LED 50 is emitted in horizontaldirection, which is perpendicular to the preferred light outputdirection. For emitting the light in the direction of the pile surfaceof the carpet, light scattering particles 70 are embedded in theconductive layers 22 and 24. The light scattering particles 70 scatterthe light from the LED 50 and the light is emitted outside of the secondbacking layer. It is to be noted that the electrically conductiveparticles imparting the conductivity to the electrically conductivelayers 22 and 24 may be used for light scattering purpose. In otherwords, the size of the electrically conductive particles may be adaptedto also serve as the light scattering particles 70. A reflecting layermay be provided under the layer 21 for redirecting light in thedirection of the side facing the adhesive layer 30.

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the cross section of an embodiment of acarpet 100 according to the present invention. This embodiment shows, incontrast to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 a light emitting sheet 90instead of individual LEDs. The light emitting sheet may be e.g. anelectroluminescent panel, a LED panel comprising a plurality of LEDs oran OLED panel. The LED panel may be a string of LEDs mounted on aflexible PCB, on which electronics are arranged that allow the LED panelto be cut at a desired length. The conductive arrangement 60 is notshown for clarity's sake.

This light emitting panel 90 is adhered on a side of the second backinglayer 20 facing away from the adhesive layer by a second adhesive layer91. The second backing layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 91 may beat least partially permeable to light for allowing transmission of thelight from the light emitting panel 90 to the adhesive layer 30 betweenthe primary backing layer 10 and the second backing layer 20. This maybe achieved by the use of a second backing layer 20 and a secondadhesive layer 91 which are at least partly translucent. Such a secondbacking layer 20 may be obtained by providing the second backing layer20 with apertures large enough to transmit light but small enough tomaintain its surface substantially the same as the primary backing layer10 and the adhesive layer 30. The second adhesive layer 91 may be madeat least partly translucent in a similar manner as the adhesive layer 30between the primary backing layer 10 and the second backing layer 20.Translucent latex, without light scattering particles such as calciumcarbonate, may be used for this purpose. The carpet 100 may furthercomprise a reflecting layer (not illustrated) positioned to a side ofthe light emitting panel 90 facing away from the second backing layer20. This reflector may also be integrated within the light emittingpanel 90. It is also possible to provide an alternative fixing and tonot glue the light emitting panel to the carpet, in effect not providingan adhesive 91.

FIGS. 9 a-d schematically illustrates an exemplary method ofmanufacturing the second backing according to the invention usingtranslucent rubber.

As illustrated in FIG. 9 a, first, a layer 22 a of uncured translucentelectrically conductive rubber is applied on top of a layer 21 of curedelectrically isolating translucent rubber. While the layer 22 a appliedon top of the layer 21 is in a liquid form, a LED 50 is immersed intothe rubber. The immersion is done in such a way that the electrode 51 ofthe LED 50 is at least partly immersed in the rubber. Subsequently therubber layer 22 a is cured to form the translucent electricallyconductive layer 22, for example with vulcanization, or any othersuitable means for curing the rubber.

After the electrically conductive layer 22 is formed, a layer ofelectrically isolating translucent rubber 23 is applied on top of thelayer 22, as illustrated in FIG. 9 b. The thickness of this layer 23 issuch that the electrode 51 is now fully immersed, and that the electrode52 is at least partially uncovered. The layer 23 may be applied inliquid form after which it is cured, but it is also possible to use apre-shaped sheet, which is glued to layer the layer 22.

Subsequently, another layer 24 a of uncured translucent electricallyconductive rubber is applied onto the electrically isolating layer 23,as illustrated in FIG. 9 c. Subsequently the rubber is cured to form theelectrically conductive layer 24. The amount of the uncured rubber ischosen such that at least part of the electrode 52 is immersed in theelectrically conductive layer 24 formed by the curing of the rubber.

Then, as illustrated in FIG. 9 d, another layer of electricallyisolating translucent rubber 25 is applied in order to seal off thedevice such that no electrical voltage is on the outside and the devicemay be handled safely.

In the above manufacturing example uncured rubber is used. However, itshould be noted that also pre-shaped cured sheets may be used.

An advantage of this method is that the manufacturability is improvedbecause the LEDs do not have to be connected by wires.

FIG. 10 a and b show experimental results of the optical properties ofthe conventional carpet and the carpet according to the presentinvention. FIG. 10 a shows the reflection, transmission and absorptionof a conventional carpet consisting of a primary backing layer, a secondbacking layer (sold under the name of ActionBac®) and an adhesive layer.The measurement shows that the optical transmission is below 1% over thewavelength range of 200 nm to 800 nm and the absorption is so high thateven with back-reflector less than 1% of light will be transmitted. Thisresults from the fact that the conventional adhesive layer comprises atoo high amount of calcium-carbonate particles which makes the adhesivelayer opaque.

In an embodiment, the materials for the adhesive layer and the secondbacking layer are chosen so that these layers will transmit light. Anexperimental result of the transmission and the reflection of the carpetaccording to the present invention is shown in FIG. 10 b in comparisonwith a conventional carpet. In the figure, 1R, 2R, 1T and 2T refer toreflection of the conventional carpet, reflection of the carpetaccording to the present invention, transmission of the conventionalcarpet and transmission of the carpet according to the presentinvention, respectively. The carpet according to the present inventioncomprises an adhesive layer made of transparent latex that does notcomprise calcium carbonate particles and a second backing layer havingapertures (e.g. Action Bak®). At 550 nm, the transmission increased to11% in the carpet according to the present invention compared to below0.2% in the conventional carpet. The reflectivity increased from 32% to37% at 550 nm. It should be noted that with back-reflector the totallight transmittance can be increased further. Also, by integrating thelight source in the carpet structure (see for example FIG. 2A) theoptical transmittance may be increased further.

FIG. 11 shows an example of a conventional tufted textile 400 in theform of a tufted carpet, comprising a backing 10, yarns forming tufts 40extending from a first side of the backing. The backing 10 of the tuftedcarpet 100 comprises a primary backing layer 10 in which tufts are made,typically using nylon yarns 40. Subsequently a coating of latex 30 isspread onto the bottom of the carpet in order to lock the tufts inplace. This is called the pre-coat latex layer. After the pre-coat layerhas dried, an additional layer of latex is applied (the so-calledadhesive layer 30), onto which a secondary backing is applied. Thecarpet is then placed in an oven (autoclave) to cure the latex. Thepurpose of the second backing layer 20 is to give the carpet structureextra strength. In a preferred embodiment a polyolefin dispersion isused as pre-coat (on for instance the primary layer for subsequentproviding the adhesive layer) and/or the adhesive layer itself. Asuitable polyolefin dispersion may for instance be HYPODTM of DowChemical. These are propylene- and ethylene-based dispersions thatcombine the performance of high-molecular-weight thermoplastics andelastomers with the application advantages of a high-solids waterbornedispersion. Polyolefin dispersions can provide benefits to carpetmanufacturers by allowing them to apply a thermoplastic backing usingconventional coating equipment. For example, using a carpet backing ofPVB (poly vinyl20 butyral), or polypropylene, the problem of UVsensitivity may be solved, while at the same time increasing the lightpermeability. Hence, another suitable polyolefin dispersion maybe apvb-based dispersion. However, other thermoplastics might have an evenhigher light permeability. In this example the backing is formed by theprimary backing layer 10, the pre-coat latex layer 35, the adhesivelayer 30 and the secondary backing layer 20. In alternative embodiments,the backing may be comprised of additional layers, including adhesivelayers, or may even be comprised of a monolayer wherein the tuftedtextile is fixed to extend from a first side of the backing. Accordingto an aspect, the backing is substantially permeable to light.

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 show examples of a vehicle having a passengercompartment provided with light emissive lining, the lining being formedas a tufted textile 100. In FIG. 12 an automobile interior is shownhaving emissive lining 100 embedded in the headliner to recreate a nightsky on the roof. The system may comprise separately addressable areas,such that illumination can also be done for different sections of thevehicle. For example, a passenger car might have a separatelycontrollable section to illuminate the roof above the driver, a sectionilluminating the person next to the driver, and a section illuminatingthe back of the car. In addition, the carpet may be used to cover thesides of the vehicle, such as for example the inside of a door. This hasespecially a decorative effect, but it may also be used to help a personfind buttons or handles on the door. In this respect, the inventionadditionally relates to a vehicle having a compartment 1200 providedwith light emissive lining, the lining being formed as a tufted textile100 wherein the light emissive liner is arranged to indicate thepresence of manual controllers in the car, in particular, handles, doorknobs and window controls. For example, a light emissive striping may bearranged in the liner provided around a door handle (not shown). In yetanother embodiment the carpet is used to illuminate the floor of thevehicle. For example, the carpet in the footwell of the vehicle may beemitting light, or strips of illuminated carpet may be used on the floorof the vehicle close to the door, in order to help passengers get intothe vehicle.

In FIG. 13 roof and roof lining of a vehicle 1300 is omitted in theinterests of clarity, and illustrate that tufted textile illumination ofthe kind described above provided in the interior lining 1314 of thepassenger footwells 1313 and may benefit from such positioning toimprove, in addition to illumination, the noise, vibration and harshness(NVH) characteristics of the interior since the lining may provideadditional acoustic damping. In particular a light emissive liner systemaccording to the invention will reflect and/or transmit less sound thanfor instance a light emissive liner having LEDs placed on top of thelining surface. In addition, this liner is well protected against wearsince the tufts function as additional protection for the light source1350. For example, in the case of a fibre-optic carpet wherein endpoints of the fiber optics extend through the carpet face, the opticswill wear and may be damaged. In addition, the light output of suchfibre-optic carpet may not generate sufficient light to be able toprovide interior lighting in the car.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative example of a vehicle 1410 having acompartment 1400, in this example, the interior of a booth, providedwith light emissive lining. In this example, a signaling function, suchas emergency lighting is provided in the booth 1400 of a car havinglight emissive liner provided on the interior. The main function of thissystem is safety. If there is an emergency and the vehicle is nowstopped along the road, the booth can be opened to make the lightemissive carpet visible. The carpet can show a warning/danger sign. Mainadvantage of this embodiment is that the sign can be placed on arelative high position which increases visibility and increases thesafety.

FIG. 15 shows an additional safety or information application of thelight emissive carpet in a compartment 1500, such as a corridor, aisleor the like. In this embodiment, the carpet 1510 is controlled by adisplay controller in a first operation mode, wherein the light emissivefunction of the carpet is shut off or only used for decorative lightemissive purposes. In a second operation mode, the display controller1520 instructs the light emissive carpet 1510 via a data connection 1530to display safety or information signals. The controller may bereceiving instructions from a central safety control system 1540 andadditionally, the controller 1520 and/or light emissive carpet 1510 maybe fed by emergency power supply 1550. This application may be providedwithin moving vehicles but is also suited for other compartments, suchas in public places, buildings etc. The provision of emergency exitinformation via the light emissive carpet provides an advantage overemergency systems provided on the ceiling in situations where smoke ispresent and emergency systems are invisible due to debris or smoke. InFIG. 15 the safety information is shown in the form of text and anarrow. It may be clear that other safety information types can beapplied, such as a line or dots forming a line, to guide people tosafety. Switching of light dots in a line can be used to provide asafety direction.

Preferably, the lighting system is chosen such that the peak lightoutput intensity through the carpet is at least 35 mcd with a minimumspacing between lamps of 12 inches (30.5 cm). More preferably, the peaklight intensity is more than 150 mcd with a spacing of 10 cm betweenlamps, and even more preferably more than 1000 mcd.

When using LEDs below the carpet, this translates into a LED powerbetween roughly 18 mW and 500 mW.

The safety system may be applied in passenger vehicles, such as buses,trains, ships and airplanes.

FIG. 16 shows another application wherein a vehicle compartment 1600 isprovided with a light emissive liner 1610. In this application, thelight emissive liner 1610 comprises a controller 1620 connected to amultimedia device such as a video screen 1630. The controller 1620 isarranged to instruct the light emissive carpet 1610 to display pixelatedlight patterns in conformity with a video signal. For instance, thecontroller 1620 may be responsive to the video signal, in that itanalyses a primary color or primary patterns derivable from the videosignal. One application may be to color the interior of the compartment1600 in conformity with a background color of the video signal.

Alternatively or additionally, the light patterns may be controlled by apattern generator (for instance, included in controller 1620) whichreacts to ambient signals, such as a sound, temperature, light or rainsensors (not shown). For instance, a color tone or light intensity ofthe lining may be adjusted to an ambient light condition or temperature.

FIG. 17 shows yet another embodiment, wherein a light emissive carpet isused as an additional illumination source in a passenger compartment1700. As shown, in a conventional floor lighting setup, pointed shoes1701 may damage or obstruct the light emission of light sources 1750arranged in or on the floor 1701. The present invention provides floorlighting, wherein light sources, such as spot lights or high brightnessled lights 1750 may be provided in the floor for illumination purposes,while being protected against wear and impact by the light permeabletufted carpet 1710. Here, the light permeable carpet 1710 is coveringthe light sources 1750 to protect the light source. The tufted textile1710 may be provided on the floor 1701, and may be kept free fromadhesive while covering the light sources 1750.

In this way, optimal light transmission through the tufted textile canbe arranged.

FIG. 18 shows a liner system 1810 that may be arranged modularly, inparticular, for passenger compartments or public places 1800. Suchsystem 1810 may combine flexibility of design with robustness and mayfunction as electronic carpet systems which may be easily coupled. Tothis end, the light emissive lining is provided on a body 1820 forattachment to an inner room surface, in particular, floor surface. In anembodiment, the body comprises a planar light source provided on thebody and a tufted textile provided on the light source beingsubstantially permeable to light. The body may further comprise controlcircuitry to control the light source, in particular, to control a coloror light pattern generated by the light source. The control circuitrymay further comprise connectors 1840 for coupling to another body, toarrive at a modularly connected liner system.

In some aspects, embodiments of the invention may be characterized asfollows:

A tufted textile comprising:

a primary backing layer which is substantially permeable to light,

yarns forming tufts on a first side of the primary backing layer,

an adhesive layer provided on a second side of the primary backing layeropposite from the first side, and

a light source and a conductor arrangement for the light source arrangedin a position facing the second side of the primary backing layer,

wherein the adhesive layer, the light source and the conductorarrangement, are arranged so as to allow light from the light source toreach the primary backing layer;

The adhesive layer may be at least partially permeable to light forallowing transmission of the light from the light source to the primarybacking layer;

The adhesive layer may comprise at least one of latex and acrylics;

The adhesive layer may be translucent;

The tufted textile may further comprise a second backing layer providedon a side of the adhesive layer facing away from the primary backinglayer, wherein

the primary layer, the adhesive layer and the second layer havesubstantially the same surface area,

the adhesive layer and the primary backing layer are substantiallypermeable to light and

the light source, the conductor arrangement and the second backing layerare arranged so as to allow light from the light source to reach theadhesive layer.

The light source and the conductor arrangement may be integrated in thesecond backing layer, wherein the second backing layer is at leastpartially permeable to light for allowing transmission of the light fromthe light source to the adhesive layer, or the light source and theconductor arrangement are provided on the surface of the second backinglayer facing the adhesive layer.

The light source may also be located below the carpet structure, withoutthe light source being attached or adhered to the carpet structure.

The light source may be one or more LEDs.

The LEDs and the circuit arrangement may be arranged so that at least asubstantial part of the LEDs is operable when the tufted textile isreduced in size.

The LEDs may be Red-Green-Blue LEDs.

The light source may comprises a light emitting sheet arranged on a sideof the second backing layer facing away from the adhesive layer

The light emitting sheet may comprise an electroluminescent panel, anLED panel or an OLED panel.

The tufted textile may further comprise a reflecting layer positioned toa side of the light emitting sheet facing away from the second backinglayer.

The tufted textile may be a carpet. Various modifications of theexemplary embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilledin the art. For example, the number of the backing layers is not limitedto two or three. In addition, although the tufted textile is generallyshown to be a liner fixedly arranged in a compartment, the liner may beprovided in the form of a separate mat, that can be placed for examplein a footwell. Also, the liner may be provided as a liner element thatmay be attached to a conventionally lined ceiling of a vehicle.Furthermore, although the liner systems may be provided in vehiclecompartments, other public places such as restrooms, hotel lobbies androoms may be provided with the light emissive tufted textile systemaccording to the invention. In particular, according to an aspect, theinvention may be characterized as a compartment provided with lightemissive lining, the lining being formed as a tufted textile 100comprising: a backing 10, yarns 40 forming tufts extending from a firstside of the backing, the lining further comprising a light source 50; 80and a conductor arrangement 60 for the light source, wherein the lightsource, the conductor arrangement and the backing are arranged so as toradiate light from the light source at least partly through the backing,the backing being substantially permeable to light.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall notbe construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb “comprise” and itsconjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps otherthan those stated in a claim. The article “a” or “an” preceding anelement does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

If not specifically defined, the term “substantially” herein, will beunderstood by the person skilled in the art. Where applicable, the term“substantially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”,“completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, where applicable, in embodiments theadjective substantially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term“substantially” may also relate to 10% or higher, or, at least, beingable to provide a perceptually relevant effect.

In particular, for the term “substantially permeable” it is intendedthat light permeability generates a perceptually relevant light emissionthrough the tufted textile (for example a light transmission of at least5%), for example having a transmission ratio of at least 25% in thevisible spectrum such as disclosed in FIG. 10.

In other cases where applicable, the term “substantially” may indicatevalues such as 90% or higher, especially 90% or higher, even morespecifically, and especially 99% or higher, including 100%. This is forexample the case for ‘substantially the same surface area’ and‘substantially consists of’.

The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually differentdependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measurescannot be used to advantage.

1. A compartment comprising: a tufted textile, the tufted textilecomprising: a backing, and yarns-(40) forming tufts extending from afirst side of the backing, the compartment further comprising a lightsource and a conductor arrangement for the light source, wherein thelight source, the conductor arrangement and the backing are arranged ona side facing away from the first side of the backing, so as to radiatelight from the light source at least partly through the backing, thebacking being substantially permeable to light.
 2. The compartmentaccording to claim 1, the compartment provided in a vehicle or publicplace, the compartment provided with an interior having the tuftedtextile, light source and conductor arrangement arranged as a lightemissive lining.
 3. The compartment according to claim 2, wherein thelight emissive lining is provided on a molded body for attachment to aninner compartment surface.
 4. The compartment according to claim 1,wherein the backing comprises a primary backing layer and an adhesivelayer, at least partially permeable to light for allowing transmissionof the light from the light source to the primary backing layer.
 5. Thecompartment according to claim 4, wherein the adhesive layer comprisesat least one of latex and acrylics.
 6. The compartment as claimed inclaim 4, further comprising a second backing layer provided on a side ofthe adhesive layer facing away from the primary backing layer, whereinthe primary layer, the adhesive layer and the second layer havesubstantially the same surface area, the adhesive layer and the primarybacking layer are substantially permeable to light and the light source,the conductor arrangement and the second backing layer are arranged soas to allow light from the light source to reach the adhesive layer. 7.The compartment as claimed in claim 6, wherein the light source and theconductor arrangement are integrated in the second backing layer,wherein the second backing layer is at least partially permeable tolight for allowing transmission of the light from the light source tothe adhesive layer, or the light source and the conductor arrangementare provided on the surface of the second backing layer facing theadhesive layer.
 8. The compartment as claimed in claim 1, wherein thelight source is one or more LEDs, preferably Red-Green-Blue LEDs.
 9. Thecompartment as claimed in claim 8, wherein the LEDs and the circuitarrangement are arranged so that at least a substantial part of the LEDsis operable when the tufted textile is reduced in size.
 10. Thecompartment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the light source comprises alight emitting sheet arranged on a side of the second backing layerfacing away from the adhesive layer.
 11. The compartment as claimed inclaim 10, wherein the light emitting sheet comprises anelectroluminescent panel, an LED panel or an OLED panel.
 12. Thecompartment as claimed in claim 11, further comprising a reflectinglayer positioned to a side of the light emitting sheet facing away fromthe second backing layer.
 13. The compartment as claimed in claim 1,wherein the tufted textile is a carpet.
 14. A light emissive elementadapted for providing a room interior lining in a compartment,comprising: a body for attachment to an inner room surface; a liningbeing formed on the body as a tufted textile the lining comprising: abacking, and yarns forming tufts extending from a first side of thebacking, a light source and a conductor arrangement for the lightsource, wherein the light source, the conductor arrangement and thebacking are arranged so as to radiate light from the light source atleast partly through the backing, the backing being substantiallypermeable to light.
 15. A method of manufacturing a light emissiveelement adapted for providing a room interior lining in a compartmentcomprising a light source and a conductor arrangement for the lightsource, comprising the step of: adhering a primary backing layer whichis substantially permeable to light provided with yarns forming tuftsand a second backing layer having substantially the same surface area asthe primary layer with an adhesive layer which is substantiallypermeable to light and having substantially the same surface area as theprimary backing layer and the second backing layer, wherein the lightsource, the conductor arrangement and the second backing layer arearranged so as to allow light from the light source to reach theadhesive layer.